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Lateral step-up

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Lateral step-up

  1. Stand sideways on the bottom step of a staircase with your affected leg on the step and your other foot on the floor.
  2. Keeping your head up and your back straight, lean slightly forward. Hold on to a handrail or wall if you feel unsteady.
  3. Use your affected leg to raise yourself up, bringing your other foot level with the stair step. Then slowly bend your knee to lower your foot back down. As you bend and straighten your leg:
    • Keep your hips level.
    • Keep your knee moving in a straight line with your middle toe. Don't let your knee go past your toe.
    • Keep your heel flat on the step.
  4. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other leg.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.